The changes in facial features that create an aged appearance are due to a variety of reasons including genetics, gravity, sun exposure, smoking and stress.

When the neck appears prematurely aged compared to the remainder of the face a neck lift is a good option. Other rejuvenation procedures are frequently combined with a neck lift including a brow lift and blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)

Common reasons why patients seek consultation for a neck lift include:

• Excess fat and skin in the lower face

• Excess fat under the chin (double chin)

• Loose neck skin

• Muscle banding in the neck

It is important that the patient has a clear idea of what improvements they want for their jawline and neck and have realistic expectations for what can be achieved with a neck lift. Dr. Derderian will discuss these specific goals in detail at your consultation and will develop a surgical plan tailored to the agreed upon plan.

The traditional neck lift incision begins in front of the ear, extends around the earlobe into the groove behind the ear and ends in the hairline behind the ear. Usually an additional incision is made under the chin through which the skin is elevated, liposuction may be performed and the muscle in the neck is tightened. After elevating the skin it is draped over the corrected contours and any excess skin is trimmed away. Fine sutures are used to close the incisions. Small drains are usually left in place for the first night after surgery and a bulky dressing is worn overnight.

In the immediate period after neck lift surgery a bulk dressing is worn and a thin drain are left in place and neck to minimize swelling and bruising. Prescribed pain medicine is used for 2-3 days and then only ibuprofen and Tylenol. After the dressings and drain are removed antibiotic ointment is applied to the incisions 2-3 times daily. The sutures are removed 5-7 days after surgery.

Any bruising that occurs resolves by 10 days after surgery. The majority of the swelling resolves by 4 weeks after the procedure. A low salt diet is important during this period to avoid excessive retention of swelling. The remainder of the swelling slowly resolves over the course of the next 6-12 months.

Costs include:

• Anesthesia fees – cover the anesthesiologist, their staff and medications

• Hospital or surgical facility costs – covers the operating room, staff and equipment

• Surgeon’s fee

Dr. Derderian trained in plastic surgery at New York University and the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital (MEETH) where he had extensive training in cosmetic surgery. After completing his residency Dr. Derderian did a fellowship in craniofacial surgery at the University of Pennsylvania. He joined the faculty in the Department of Plastic Surgery at UT Southwestern in Dallas in 2011, which is widely known for its excellence in cosmetic surgery. Dr. Derderian is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Derderian is known for his meticulous attention to detail and natural results.